Subway is preparing to open hundreds of new UK restaurants as part of a major expansion that could intensify competition with Greggs and Pret a Manger. The American sandwich chain plans to almost double its footprint across Europe, the Middle East and Africa over the next five years, bringing the total to more than 10,000 restaurants in the wider region.
Britain is expected to receive hundreds of new branches under the plans. Existing Subway restaurants are also set to be refreshed as the company changes how customers order and what they can eat.
Blueprint model rollout
The expansion forms part of Subway's new "Blueprint" model, which will apply to every new and remodelled restaurant across the region from January 1, 2027. The UK is already one of the first two countries to have restaurants using the new format, after the first Blueprint sites opened there and in the Netherlands during summer 2026.
One of the biggest changes will be a greater push into breakfast. Restaurants will be able to offer an extended menu alongside coffee made using 100% Arabica beans, giving Subway another opportunity to compete for customers throughout the day.
New ordering and grab & go options
Customers will increasingly be able to place orders through self-service kiosks or the Subway app, alongside the chain's familiar service counter. Subway is also targeting commuters with a new Grab & Go range at busy locations such as train stations and shopping areas.
These branches will offer meals ready for customers to pick up immediately, potentially bringing Subway into more direct competition with Greggs and Pret. However, not every Subway will necessarily receive the same additions. The company said different formats will be introduced depending on local demand.
Evening concept and franchisee outlook
Tracy Gehlan, president of Subway EMEA, said: "Guests want to eat their way, on their own schedule, and Blueprint is how we deliver on that. We celebrate our guests’ individual choices, from how they order to when they visit to what they want in their meal, always with great food, great service and a great environment. For our franchisees, it means stronger restaurant economics and a stronger brand built for the long term."
The chain is also looking beyond breakfast and lunch as it explores ways of attracting customers later in the day. A "Subway After Dark" concept is currently being trialled in the Netherlands, offering a different evening experience from 6pm with warmer lighting and a night-time playlist. The late-night menu includes more indulgent options such as foot-long pizzas, loaded waffle fries and mac and cheese.
Subway has not confirmed that the concept will be introduced across Britain. The company has also not revealed exactly how many of its planned new restaurants will open in the UK. Subway currently has more than 35,000 restaurants around the world, with its sites independently owned and operated by franchisees.
